People and Organisation Development Apprentice Review
at Essex County Council
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Human Resources
Chelmsford
Review Submitted: March 2026
Overall Rating
4.9 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As a People and Organisation Development Apprentice in the Change and OD team, I support initiatives that improve organisational effectiveness and help teams adapt to change. My role involves assisting with organisational development projects, preparing materials for workshops and events, supporting communications and engagement activities, and contributing to research and project work.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my programme as it provides a good balance between practical workplace experience and academic learning. It allows me to apply the knowledge I gain through my CIPD studies to real organisational projects, which helps develop my understanding of people practice and organisational development.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, I have developed several new skills and strengthened existing ones. These include research and analysis, communication, and supporting organisational development activities. I have also improved my confidence in contributing to projects, preparing resources, and working collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well structured, with opportunities to gain experience across different areas of HR. In the first year, I rotated across three teams - Learning and Talent Development, People and Payroll, and Change and Organisation Development - spending four months in each. This provided a broad understanding of different people functions. In the final year, we specialise in our preferred placement, allowing us to build deeper experience and skills in that area.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a good level of support from my employer. My team and managers provide guidance and opportunities to get involved in different projects, which helps me develop my skills and apply my learning in practice. I also receive support to balance my apprenticeship studies alongside my work responsibilities.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive good support from my training provider through regular coaching sessions with my coach, which help guide my learning and progress. We also have quarterly reviews with my coach and line manager to reflect on my development, discuss my progress towards the qualification, and identify any support needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My qualification helps me perform better in my role by providing a solid understanding of people and organisational development theory, which I can apply directly to my day-to-day work. It gives me the knowledge and tools to contribute effectively to projects, support colleagues, and develop my skills in HR and OD practice.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
Yes, there are extra-curricular opportunities at work, such as the Young People’s Network and the recently launched Apprenticeship Network. Because I work mostly hybrid, engagement in these networks has been limited so far, but I’m hoping the new Apprenticeship Network will provide more opportunities to connect, collaborate, and get involved with colleagues.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Essex County Council to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Essex County Council to a friend because it offers a supportive and varied work environment with opportunities to learn and develop. In particular, the apprenticeship programme provides practical experience across different HR and OD areas, alongside formal qualifications, and the organisation encourages collaboration, professional growth, and involvement in meaningful projects that make a real difference to the community.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Essex County Council?
My advice would be to research the council and its values, and be ready to show how your skills and experiences align with the role. Be proactive, open to learning, and willing to get involved in different projects. Also, make the most of opportunities to network and ask questions, this shows enthusiasm and helps you make the most of the apprenticeship experience.
